andrejthechef
InternationalDessertSnackVegetarianGluten-free

Baked Cinnamon Banana

Banana baked until soft with a little cinnamon, served with a spoonful of plain yogurt. No added sugar.

prep
5 min
cook
12 min
total
17 min
serves
2
level
easy
Baked Cinnamon Banana, a soft, toddler-friendly meal

Baking a banana whole in its skin is a small trick that turns an ordinary banana into something softer and a little more special, with barely any effort involved.

A pinch of cinnamon and a spoonful of plain yogurt are really all it needs; the banana itself turns almost caramelized once it has had time in the oven.

If your little one is still earlier in the journey, start with our Baby's First Foods guide.

Part of our 40 toddler meal ideas list.

method

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

  2. Place the whole, unpeeled banana on a small baking tray.

  3. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the skin darkens and the banana feels very soft all the way through when gently pressed.

  4. Let it cool for a few minutes, then carefully split the skin open and scoop out the soft banana flesh.

  5. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon, and mash lightly with a fork if your toddler prefers a smoother texture.

  6. Serve warm, not hot, with a spoonful of plain yogurt.

chef's tips

  • Baking the banana whole in its skin keeps it from drying out and gives it an extra-soft, almost custardy texture once it is scooped out.
  • Let it cool properly before serving; a just-baked banana holds heat inside the skin longer than it looks like it would.
  • No added sugar is needed. A very ripe banana turns almost caramelized once baked, with plenty of natural sweetness.
  • This is a good one to make when you already have the oven on for something else, since it needs very little attention while it bakes.